MENSTRUAL CUPS: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THEM

A menstrual cup is a small, flexible reusable, funnel-shaped cup that is made of silicone or rubber that you insert in your vagina to collect and catch your period flow. 

Menstrual cups can hold blood for longer hours. Depending on your flow, you can wear a menstrual cup for up to 12 hours 

Which menstrual cup is good for me

To figure out the best menstrual cup for you, you and your doctor need to consider the following:

1. Your age
2. Length of your cervix
3. Whether or not you have a heavy flow
4. Firmness and flexibility of the cup
5. Cup capacity
6. Strength of your pelvic floor muscles
7. If you’ve given birth vaginally

For women who haven’t delivered through the vagina, it is advised they use smaller menstrual cups. 

For women who have given birth, or have heavier periods, a larger menstrual cup is recommended for use. 

How do I insert a menstrual cup? 

Putting a menstrual cup is easy. Just follow these steps to use a cup:

Before inserting a menstrual cup into the vagina, be sure to wash the hands.

Squeeze the cup and fold it in any way that is comfortable.

Now insert the folded cup horizontally into the vagina.

If you feel any discomfort or it hurts while inserting, then take out the cup and try reinserting it.

After inserting without any discomfort, the inserted cup should pop open. You can facilitate it by rotating on either side or by pulling the stem down

You shouldn’t feel your menstrual cup if you’ve inserted the cup correctly. 

You should also be able to move, jump, sit, stand, and do other everyday activities without your cup falling out. If you’re having trouble putting in your cup, speak with your doctor.

How do I remove the menstrual cup?

Before removing the menstrual cup from the vagina, always wash your hands. Gently pull down the cup until you can reach it with the help of the stem. 

Now pinch the base to break the suction inside the vagina. 

After breaking the suction, take the cup out and pour the blood out. 

After emptying the cup, wash the cup with warm or cold water.